Battling Perspiration Odors With Laundry Detergent. 15 Pro Tips for Eliminating Sweat Odors from Sportswear with Laundry Detergent

How can you effectively remove perspiration odors from workout clothes. What are the best laundry detergent ingredients for tackling sweat smells. Which washing techniques help keep sportswear fresh. How do you prevent odor buildup in athletic wear over time.

Table of Contents

Choosing the Right Detergent: Enzymes and Oxygen for Odor Elimination

When it comes to battling persistent sweat odors in sportswear, selecting the right laundry detergent is crucial. Enzymes and oxygen-based ingredients are two powerful allies in this fight against funk.

The Power of Enzymatic Detergents

Enzymatic detergents contain specialized proteins that target and break down organic compounds responsible for odors. These enzymes work at a molecular level, penetrating deep into fabric fibers to eliminate smells at their source.

Look for detergents with multiple enzymes like protease, amylase, and mannanase
Opt for formulas specifically designed for athletic and performance wear
Enzyme blends are particularly effective against sweat and body oils

Are enzymatic detergents more expensive than regular ones? While they may come with a higher price tag, the investment is worthwhile for maintaining the freshness of your activewear.

Oxygen-Based Detergents: A Breath of Fresh Air

Oxygen-based detergents offer another powerful solution for eliminating sweat odors and maintaining the brightness of white sportswear. These products release oxygen molecules during the wash cycle, which effectively break down odor-causing bacteria and organic stains.

Look for detergents containing sodium percarbonate or hydrogen peroxide
Oxygen-based formulas are particularly effective on whites and light colors
They provide a natural bleaching effect without harsh chemicals

Can oxygen-based detergents be used on all fabrics? While generally safe for most materials, always check the care label and test on a small, inconspicuous area first.

Pre-Treatment Techniques for Stubborn Odors

Sometimes, even the best detergents need a little help when it comes to tackling deeply embedded sweat odors. Pre-treatment techniques can give your wash an extra boost of odor-fighting power.

The Soak Method: Giving Enzymes a Head Start

Soaking your sportswear before washing can significantly improve odor removal. This technique allows the detergent’s enzymes to begin breaking down odors before the main wash cycle.

Fill a bucket or sink with warm water
Add half a cup of enzymatic detergent
Submerge odorous items and let soak for 30-60 minutes
Proceed with normal washing

Is longer soaking always better? While a longer soak can be beneficial for extremely smelly items, avoid soaking delicate fabrics for extended periods to prevent damage.

Targeted Pre-Treatment for Problem Areas

Some areas of sportswear, like underarms or shoe insoles, tend to harbor more odors. Applying a concentrated detergent solution directly to these spots can enhance odor removal.

Create a paste with powdered detergent and a small amount of water
Apply the paste to odor-prone areas and gently work it into the fabric
Let sit for 15-20 minutes before washing

Should you use this method on all stains? While effective for odors, this technique may not be suitable for all types of stains. Always check the garment care label and test on a small area first.

Optimizing Your Wash Cycle for Odor Removal

The way you wash your sportswear can significantly impact odor removal effectiveness. By optimizing your wash cycle, you can maximize freshness while preserving the integrity of your activewear.

Temperature Matters: Cool It Down for Synthetics

While hot water can be tempting for tackling tough odors, it’s not always the best choice for sportswear. Many performance fabrics are made from synthetic materials that can be damaged by high temperatures.

Use warm or cold water settings for most activewear
Reserve hot water for heavily soiled items or natural fibers like cotton
Finish with a cold rinse to close fabric pores and lock in freshness

Does cooler water still clean effectively? Yes, modern detergents are formulated to work well in cooler temperatures, and the enzymes remain active in warm and cold water.

Load Size and Agitation: Finding the Right Balance

Proper load size and agitation are crucial for effective odor removal. Overloading the washer can prevent clothes from moving freely, reducing cleaning efficiency.

Fill the washer drum no more than 2/3 full
Use the appropriate cycle for the fabric type (e.g., delicate for moisture-wicking materials)
Consider using mesh laundry bags for delicate items to prevent excessive wear

How does agitation affect odor removal? Adequate agitation ensures that detergent is evenly distributed and can penetrate fabric fibers effectively, enhancing odor removal.

Post-Wash Care: Drying and Storage Strategies

The battle against sweat odors doesn’t end when the wash cycle finishes. Proper drying and storage techniques are essential for maintaining freshness and preventing odor buildup.

Air Drying: A Fresh Approach

While convenient, machine drying can sometimes bake in residual odors. Air drying offers a gentler alternative that can help keep sportswear fresh.

Hang items outside in direct sunlight when possible
Use a drying rack or clothesline in a well-ventilated area indoors
Ensure items are completely dry before storing to prevent mildew

Does air drying take longer than machine drying? While it may take more time, the benefits in odor prevention and fabric preservation often outweigh the inconvenience.

Smart Storage: Keeping Odors at Bay

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the freshness of your clean sportswear. Trapped moisture and poor ventilation can quickly lead to musty odors.

Store items in a cool, dry place with good air circulation
Use open-weave laundry baskets or mesh bags for dirty items
Consider using moisture-absorbing products in closets or drawers

Should you use scented products in storage areas? While they may mask odors temporarily, scented products can sometimes interact with fabric fibers and create new odor issues. Focus on proper cleaning and ventilation instead.

Preventative Measures: Minimizing Odor Buildup

Taking proactive steps to prevent odor buildup can significantly reduce the challenge of keeping sportswear fresh. By adopting good habits, you can minimize the intensity of sweat odors from the start.

Prompt Washing: Don’t Let Odors Linger

One of the most effective ways to prevent odor buildup is to wash your sportswear promptly after use. Allowing sweat and bacteria to sit in the fabric can lead to more stubborn smells.

Wash activewear within 24 hours of use when possible
If immediate washing isn’t feasible, hang items to air out rather than tossing in a hamper
Consider using a sports detergent spray for spot treatment between washes

Is it necessary to wash after every wear? For most activewear, especially items worn during intense workouts, washing after each use is ideal for odor prevention.

Fabric Choice: Selecting Odor-Resistant Materials

The type of fabric used in sportswear can significantly impact its tendency to retain odors. Some materials naturally resist bacterial growth and odor absorption better than others.

Look for sportswear made with antimicrobial fabrics
Consider natural fibers like merino wool, which have inherent odor-resistant properties
Opt for moisture-wicking synthetics designed for quick drying

Do antimicrobial fabrics eliminate the need for frequent washing? While they can help reduce odor buildup, regular cleaning is still necessary for optimal freshness and hygiene.

Advanced Odor-Fighting Techniques

For particularly stubborn odors or heavily used sportswear, sometimes standard washing techniques aren’t enough. These advanced methods can provide extra odor-fighting power when needed.

Vinegar Rinse: A Natural Deodorizer

White vinegar is a powerful natural deodorizer that can help neutralize persistent sweat odors. Adding a vinegar rinse to your wash routine can enhance freshness without harsh chemicals.

Add 1 cup of white vinegar to the fabric softener compartment
Run a normal wash cycle with detergent
If desired, follow with an extra rinse cycle to remove any vinegar scent

Will clothes smell like vinegar after washing? The vinegar odor typically dissipates during the rinse cycle, leaving clothes fresh and odor-free.

Baking Soda Boost: Absorbing Odors Naturally

Baking soda is another natural odor absorber that can complement your regular detergent. It helps neutralize acidic odors and balance pH levels in fabrics.

Add 1/2 cup of baking soda to the wash along with your regular detergent
For pre-treatment, create a paste with baking soda and water to apply to odorous areas
Sprinkle baking soda in shoes or gym bags to absorb odors between uses

Can baking soda damage fabrics? When used as directed, baking soda is safe for most fabrics. However, avoid using it on wool or silk, as it can damage these delicate materials.

Maintaining Sportswear Longevity While Fighting Odors

While eliminating odors is crucial, it’s equally important to preserve the quality and performance of your sportswear. Balancing effective odor removal with gentle care can help extend the life of your activewear.

Gentle Washing Techniques

Aggressive washing can wear down fabric fibers and compromise the performance features of sportswear. Adopting gentler washing techniques can help maintain fabric integrity while still tackling odors.

Turn garments inside out before washing to protect outer surfaces
Use a gentle cycle for most sportswear items
Avoid overloading the washing machine to allow proper agitation

Does gentle washing compromise cleanliness? Not necessarily. Modern detergents and proper pre-treatment can ensure thorough cleaning even with gentler wash cycles.

Avoiding Fabric Softeners and Dryer Sheets

While fabric softeners and dryer sheets may seem like a good way to add freshness, they can actually contribute to odor problems in sportswear over time.

Fabric softeners can leave a residue that traps odors and reduces moisture-wicking properties
Dryer sheets can clog the pores in performance fabrics, affecting their breathability
Instead, use white vinegar as a natural fabric softener alternative

How do you keep sportswear soft without fabric softeners? Regular use of quality detergents and proper washing techniques can maintain fabric softness without additional products.

By implementing these advanced techniques and maintenance strategies, you can effectively combat sweat odors while preserving the quality of your sportswear. Remember, consistency in your laundry routine is key to keeping your activewear fresh and odor-free in the long term.

Choose Detergents With Enzymes to Break Down Odors

As an avid runner and gym-goer, I know the struggle of keeping workout clothes fresh and odor-free all too well. The heat, sweat, and bacteria that come with working out can really do a number on the fabrics we wear, leaving behind some pretty potent stenches.

Through much trial and error, I’ve found that the most effective weapon against stubborn perspiration odors is laundry detergent with added enzymes. These powerful proteins work on a molecular level to literally break down and digest the organic compounds that cause smells. They can penetrate deep into fabric fibers to clean at the source.

Look for detergents specifically formulated for athletic and performance wear that contain enzyme blends designed to tackle sweat and body oils. I prefer ones with multiple enzymes like protease, amylase, and mannanase that can target a wide range of odor culprits.

Compared to regular grocery store detergents, these specialty sport detergents make a huge difference in demolishing those lingering post-workout stenches. It’s worth the extra investment to keep your activewear fresh.

Try Soaking Tough Odor Causers Before Washing

While enzymes in detergents do most of the heavy lifting, an extra soak before washing can give them a head start on odiferous fabrics.

I like to fill a bucket or sink with warm water and add a half-cup of detergent. Then I’ll let my sweaty gym clothes or mud-caked soccer uniform soak for 30-60 minutes before tossing them in the wash.

This pre-treats any areas that trap smells like underarm stains in shirts or bacteria buried deep in shoe tongues. A longer soak also lets enzymes start breaking down odors so the normal wash cycle can finish the job.

Wash Synthetics in Cooler Water to Preserve Fabrics

While hot water can help blast away some odors, it can also damage performance fabrics like moisture-wicking synthetics over time. To get clothes clean while preserving their integrity, opt for cooler washes.

Unless dealing with serious grime or stains, I stick to warm or cold water settings when washing activewear. The detergent enzymes still work to remove odors without the risks of shrinking or warping.

You can finish with a cold rinse cycle to further freshen clothes and close fabric pores. This helps lock in the renewed, scent-free state.

Skip the Fabric Softener for Less Buildup

While fabric softeners and dryer sheets make clothes smell artificially fresh, they can also leave behind a coating that traps in odors over time.

The waxy residue these products leave on fabric fibers prevents sweat and oils from properly rinsing away. This causes a gradual buildup of sour smells that are hard to remove.

With athletic wear, I skip the softeners altogether and rely on detergents and good laundering practices to make clothes feel smooth and renewed. It really cuts down on lingering locker room stench.

Line or Air Dry For Extra Freshness

The heat of machine drying can bake in any perspiration odors that remain after washing. For super stinky workout wear, take things old school.

Letting clothes air dry in the breeze outside or hanging on a line indoors allows fresh oxygen to blow through the fabrics. This helps air out any lingering sour smells from the fibers and fabrics.

Not only is air drying better for odor removal, but sunlight also naturally bleaches and disinfects as an added bonus.

Use a Sanitizing Rinse or Soak

While enzymes in detergents tackle odor molecules, they don’t kill the bacteria that cause stink in the first place. Adding a sanitizing step helps destroy these microbes for fresher fabric.

Look for detergents containing an added antibacterial agent or opt for a sanitizing laundry rinse. Soaking clothes in diluted vinegar water for 30 minutes before washing also helps sanitize.

Knocking out the bacteria that thrive on sweat and body oils will go a long way in cutting down on lingering odors.

Wash Activewear After Every Wear

It might be tempting to rewear workout tops and leggings between washes, but this builds up sweat and oils that worsen odors.

Bacteria begin growing immediately after a workout, so laundering after every wear is key. It keeps microbes from getting deeply embedded in fabrics where they generate more potent smells.

I know it creates more laundry, but washing activewear promptly prevents stains and smells from setting. Your clothes and nose will thank you.

By using enzymatic detergents, pretreating tough odors, and skipping fabric softeners, you can keep your activewear smelling fresh. Follow these tips to win the battle against lingering perspiration stench.

Look for Detergents With Oxygen for Whitening & Deodorizing

Another powerful ingredient to look for when tackling sweat smells in activewear is oxygen. Oxygen-based bleaches and deodorizers work to both brighten fabrics and bust odors.

Oxygen whitening agents like sodium percarbonate safely lift stains and dinginess from colored clothes to restore their vibrancy. This helps get rid of any embedded sweat and deodorant marks.

These oxygen bleaches also break down odor molecules through oxidation, leaving behind just clean freshness. It’s a two birds, one stone situation.

I always check that my sport detergent contains an oxygen bleach component. It really helps remove that grayish tinge that white gym socks and shirts can get after many washes.

Use Prewash Sprays to Loosen Stains and Odors

Before throwing your smelly gym clothes in the wash, give them a spritz with a prewash spray to help jumpstart the cleaning process.

These pretreatments use surfactants and solvents to break down stains and loosen odors before detergent hits. I simply mist over the underarms of shirts or sweaty areas of leggings.

Letting the spray soak in for 10-15 minutes gives it time to penetrate deep and dislodge body oils and bacteria that lead to BO.

Check for Antimicrobials to Inhibit Bacteria Growth

Bacteria are the root cause of most stubborn perspiration odors in workout wear. Washing with detergents containing antimicrobial ingredients helps reduce their growth.

Look for antimicrobial agents like triclosan or Microban added to sport detergent formulas. These disinfectants stop microbes from multiplying as quickly on fabric surfaces.

While not killing them outright, inhibiting bacteria growth helps curb sources of smells before they start. Less bacteria means less BO.

Wash and Dry Promptly to Avoid Mildew

Leaving damp gym clothes sitting for hours before washing or drying can lead to that characteristic mildew stench. Don’t give it a chance to develop.

As soon as I get home from the gym, I toss my sweaty clothes directly into the wash. After washing, I switch them promptly from the washer to the dryer.

This prevents moisture from setting into fabrics where it can become a breeding ground for mold and mildew. Prompt laundering avoids the mustiness.

Add Borax or Baking Soda to Fight Stains and Odors

For an extra odor-fighting punch, add some borax or baking soda along with detergent in each activewear load. These natural boosters tackle stains and smells.

The compounds in borax work to inhibit mold and mildew growth that can lead to musty odors in damp clothes. Baking soda is a mild alkali that helps remove acidic sweat stains.

A scoop of either can give your usual detergent the extra cleaning power needed to keep funky odors at bay.

Use Mesh Wash Bags for Delicates

The repeated agitation of the washing machine can be rough on delicate activewear like sports bras. Protect them with mesh wash bags.

These bags cushion bras, swimsuits, and other stretchy fabrics from damage while still allowing water and detergent to penetrate fully.

I use them for all my athletic delicates to prevent pilling and tears that compromise fabrics over time. Extending their lifespan saves money and reduces waste.

By taking some extra odor-fighting steps, you can keep your activewear smelling fresh and clean. Follow these tips to beat smelly workout clothes.

Find Detergents With Baking Soda to Neutralize Odors

Baking soda is a versatile odor-fighting ingredient that can provide major help with smelly athletic clothes. Look for detergents containing this mild alkali to neutralize perspiration acids.

When baking soda mixes with sweat, which has an acidic pH, a neutralization reaction occurs. This cancels out odor-causing acids and leaves fabric fresh.

It also helps lift stains by chemically breaking down odor and dirt compounds. For super stinky workout wear, baking soda is a must-have.

Wash Towels and Gear Separately

Towels, headbands, and other sweat-absorbing gear should be washed separately from clothes. The leftover body oils and perspiration they hold can transfer.

I designate a separate workout accessory wash day to keep them from picking up odors from clothes. Vinegar in the rinse cycle also helps deodorize.

Washing towels and accessories separately ensures no lingering locker room smells get passed on to my clean gym clothes.

Clean Out the Washing Machine Regularly

Buildup of dirt, bacteria, and soap scum within a washer over time can lead to funky odors transferring to clothes. Do a deep clean regularly.

Once a month I run a sanitizing cycle using either bleach or vinegar to remove any grime stuck inside the drum and dispensers.

This prevents any musty smells that may have developed in the machine itself from getting passed on to my freshly washed activewear.

Hang Dry When Possible to Avoid Shrinkage

The heat of machine drying can not only damage athletic fabrics causing them to shrink, but also bake in odors that linger.

Letting clothes air dry allows fresh air to naturally remove odors rather than drying them into the material. It also prevents shrinkage issues.

I hang dry all my workout wear when I can, and then just put in the dryer briefly to soften them once fully dry.

Store in Breathable Containers

Storing clean activewear in a hamper or non-breathable bin between wears allows smells to build back up. Use more breathable storage.

I put my workout clothes in cotton poplin laundry bags that allow airflow. Mesh shoe bags also work for things like socks and sweaty gym shoes.

Proper breathable storage keeps clothes smelling freshly laundered until it’s time to get sweaty again at the next workout.

With some added steps like baking soda and better storage practices, you can keep odors at bay in your activewear. Say goodbye to smelly workout clothes!

Use Detergents With Added Fragrances to Mask Odors

While enzymes and oxidizers work to remove odor compounds, added perfumes and fragrances in detergents help cover up any lingering smells.

Opt for sport-specific detergents with fresh clean scents like ocean breeze, citrus, or spring lavender. These leave clothes smelling bright and energetic.

I avoid overly floral or artificial scents that simply mask odors instead of washing them away. The best fragrances complement cleaning ingredients.

Consider a Sanitizing Detergent for Antimicrobial Action

Harsher than typical antimicrobial agents, sanitizing detergents use chemicals like peroxide or chlorine bleach to actually kill bacteria.

For super stinky post-workout wear, I occasionally use a detergent labeled as sanitizing when I need serious antimicrobial action against fabric bacteria.

While harsh for everyday use, once in awhile it tackles the stubborn odors that normal detergent can’t eliminate on its own.

Wash Clothes Inside-Out to Protect Fabrics

Turning clothes inside-out before washing better protects the outside of fabrics from the harshness of detergent chemicals and machine agitation.

This helps preserve the smooth technical fibers of performance wear so they feel fresher longer. I also omit the fabric softener to avoid coating.

The inside-out method keeps my activewear feeling smoother and prevents pilling and fuzzing from friction.

Invest in a Quality Sport Detergent

It’s tempting to save money by using a regular bargain detergent, but the specialty formulas designed for activewear are worth it.

They contain the right ingredients and concentrations needed to tackle the durability and odor issues of synthetic technical fabrics.

A good sport detergent will actually save you money in the long run by extending the life of expensive performance clothes.

Don’t let stinky workout clothes ruin your gym experience. With the right detergent and washing methods, you can keep your activewear fresh. Say goodbye to lingering odors!

Check for Antimicrobial Ingredients to Inhibit Bacteria Growth

Bacteria thrive on the sweat, oils, and dirt that build up in activewear. Washing with detergents containing antimicrobial agents helps inhibit their growth and odor.

Look for ingredients like triclocarban, silver nanoparticles, or Microban added to detergent formulas specifically for athletic wear.

These antimicrobials prevent microbes from rapidly multiplying on fabric surfaces. Less bacteria results in less body odor.

Use a Laundry Sanitizer Occasionally

For fitness clothes that require periodic deep cleaning, use a laundry sanitizer or disinfectant to kill bacteria instead of just limiting growth.

Products like Lysol Laundry Sanitizer or Dettol Laundry Cleanser kill 99% of bacteria that cause odors when used intermittently.

I incorporate these heavy duty sanitizers every few weeks when normal washes don’t seem to cut the stink.

Skip Fabric Softener Sheets

Dryer sheets may leave clothes freshly scented but they also coat fibers and block detergents from fully removing odors in subsequent washes.

On workout wear, I never use dryer sheets. Instead I add a few drops of essential oil to a wet cloth in the dryer to gently scent.

Skipping the coating effect of dryer sheets helps detergents better penetrate and wash away odors over time.

Disinfect Gear Like Knee Pads

Porous athletic gear like pads and gloves easily trap bacteria in sweaty crevices leading to major odors. Disinfect regularly.

I use a diluted bleach solution to thoroughly wipe down knee pads and other non-clothing gear after workouts.

Disinfecting athletic accessories prevents the growth of embedded bacteria that cause pervasive and lasting smells.

By attacking the bacteria behind body odor, you can keep your activewear fresh and odor-free all season long.

Use a Prewash Spray to Loosen Dirt and Perspiration

Before washing super smelly workout wear, use a prewash spray to help loosen up embedded body oils and salt that lead to odor.

I lightly mist shirts and shorts with a pretreater, focusing on sweaty areas like armpits and collars. This helps lift surface dirt.

Letting it soak for 10-15 minutes gives the enzymes and solvents time to penetrate fibers and dissolve odors before washing.

Rotate Different Detergents

Using the same detergent constantly can lead to it losing effectiveness over time as odor-causing bacteria become resistant.

I swap out sport detergents, rotating between 2-3 different brands every couple months to confuse those bacteria.

Switching things up keeps the bacteria in my athletic wear guessing, preventing them from adapting to any one formula.

Use a Scrub Brush on Stinky Spots

For super set-in stenches like feet and underarm odors, use a soft scrub brush before washing to help dislodge bacteria.

I use an old toothbrush to gently scrub the insides of sneakers, or underarm areas before tossing in the machine.

This manual agitation brings deep-seated bacteria to the surface so detergent can better reach and remove them.

Rinse in Vinegar Post-Workout

Diluting distilled white vinegar with water for a quick rinse after exercising helps eliminate odor-causing bacteria.

The vinegar temporarily lowers pH making conditions inhospitable for many microbes. I also use it to wipe gear.

This simple antimicrobial rinse gives bacteria less chance to multiply between workouts and washing.

Keep workout gear stench-free with the right techniques and products. Never let body odor deter you from being active and healthy.

Soak Tough Odor Causers Like Gym Clothes Before Washing

For super stinky athletic wear like gym clothes and uniforms, do a pretreatment soak to help knock out embedded odors.

Fill a basin or sink with warm water and add a half cup of laundry detergent. Submerge smelly clothes and let soak 30-60 minutes before washing.

This gives time for enzymes and surfactants to penetrate deep into fabric fibers, loosening and dissolving stubborn odors.

Check Labels for Technical Fabrics

Specialized detergents for performance fabrics contain ingredients specifically designed not to damage technical materials.

Always check clothing labels for materials like spandex, polyester or nylon and match with a compatible detergent.

Using the right formulations preserves the integrity of moisture-wicking and stretch fabrics over many washes.

Hand Wash When Needed

While not convenient, hand washing especially smelly or delicate activewear ensures odor removal without damage.

I hand wash bras, swimsuits and other elastic-heavy garments in the sink with a mild detergent when they start to retain odors.

The gentle agitation protects fabric while giving me control to target stinky areas thoroughly.

Let Clothes Fully Dry Before Wearing Again

Dampness left in fabrics creates the perfect environment for odor-causing bacteria to thrive and multiply.

I always let my activewear fully dry after washing, and then put in the dryer briefly to soften. Remaining moisture invites smells.

That little bit of extra drying time prevents bacteria growth that leads to persistent odors down the road.

Don’t let stinky workout clothes or gear dissuade you from being active. With some added effort, you can keep smells at bay.

Wash Synthetic Fabrics in Cool or Warm Water, Not Hot

While hot water can help remove some odors, high temperatures can damage synthetic performance fabrics over time leading to more smells.

For moisture-wicking athletic wear I wash in either cold or warm water to safely remove odors without putting undue stress on technical fibers.

The cold cycle saves energy while still allowing detergent enzymes to be effective at eliminating smells from workout wear.

Consider a Detergent with Odor Neutralizers

Specialized odor neutralizing technologies like Febreze or Zote can help eliminate lingering smells that regular detergent doesn’t fully remove.

I sometimes use a detergent containing an extra odor neutralizer when I notice workout clothes retaining a musty aroma after washing.

These neutralizers chemically destroy the compounds responsible for embedded odors that normal washes miss.

Use Mesh Bags for Small Items

Small gear like athletic socks can get lost during washing leading to improperly cleaned odors. Mesh bags prevent this.

I throw socks, headbands and other accessory items prone to getting misplaced in the wash into mesh laundry bags first.

This ensures even cleaning by keeping everything contained so detergents can fully penetrate and remove smells.

Clean Machines Prevent Mold and Mildew

A dirty washer itself can be a culprit of lingering odors if mold and mildew build up within the machine and hoses.

I sanitize my washer monthly by running an empty hot cycle with either bleach or vinegar to kill bacteria.

Regular cleaning prevents the machine from passing its own smells onto freshly washed activewear.

Don’t let stinky exercise clothes keep you from feeling fresh while being active and healthy. Follow these tips to keep odors at bay.

Skip the Fabric Softener to Avoid Coating Fibers

While making clothes smell floral fresh, fabric softener and dryer sheets leave behind a coating that causes odors to stick to workout wear over time.

On all my activewear I skip the fabric softener so detergents can better penetrate fibers and wash away sweat and oils.

The wax buildup from softeners and dryer sheets traps in odors that should be washed away. Keep fabrics softener-free.

Disinfect Shoe Insoles

Insoles easily absorb foot bacteria and sweat leading to embedded odors if not regularly disinfected.

I use antibacterial spray designed for shoes to thoroughly coat insoles after each wear once they develop an odor.

Spritzing insoles while still in shoes after workouts kills bacteria before it has time to multiply and leads to lasting smells.

Spot Treat With Laundry Stick

Applying a laundry pre-treatment stick directly on extra smelly spots like underarms and collars helps lift odors.

I simply rub the stick over problem areas before washing to help break down sweat and oils the detergent might miss.

The oily buildup dissolves so odors don’t linger after washing. It gives detergent a boost on focused stains.

Line Dry Outdoors When Possible

Letting clothes air dry outside allows the sun and wind to naturally eliminate odors that may remain after washing.

I line dry workout wear when I can to air them out fully before wearing again. The fresh oxygen removes lingering smells.

Taking advantage of the breezy outdoors gives a final cleansing boost compared to machine drying indoors.

Don’t let malodorous exercise clothes hamper your fitness. Use these tips to keep workout wear odor-free.

Add a Sanitizing Soak or Rinse to Disinfect

If you’re an active person, you know the struggle of keeping your workout clothes fresh and odor-free. As much as we love our daily sweat sessions, the stench that lingers in our activewear afterwards is less than lovely. While regular laundry can help, getting rid of stubborn sweat and bacteria requires some extra laundering TLC.

The good news is, with the right techniques and products, you can keep your workout wear smelling clean in between washes. Below are 15 of our top tips and tricks for battling perspiration odors in activewear using laundry detergent and other cleaning solutions.

1. Pre-Treat With Laundry Detergent

Before tossing your sweaty clothes in the wash, pre-treat them with laundry detergent. Simply mix equal parts detergent and warm water, then let your clothes soak in the solution for 30 minutes up to overnight if they’re extra funky. The detergent will help break down odor and bacteria. Just launder as usual afterwards.

2. Use a Sports Detergent

For super stinky workout wear, use a laundry detergent made specifically for activewear. These detergents contain ingredients like enzymes and odor neutralizers that target sweat and the bacteria that causes stink. Look for detergents for athletic clothing from brands like Tide, Persil, and Hex.

3. Add Baking Soda

Baking soda is a natural deodorizer and mild abrasive that can help freshen up smelly clothes. Add 1/2 cup baking soda along with your regular detergent to help remove odors and brighten fabrics.

4. White Vinegar Rinse

White vinegar helps kill bacteria that causes odors. After washing with detergent, add 1 cup vinegar to the rinse cycle to help neutralize smells. You can also soak clothes in a vinegar solution beforehand.

5. Oxygen Bleach Soak

An oxygen bleach like Oxiclean can help remove tough odors. Make a paste with hot water and let clothes soak before washing. The oxygen action will help eliminate smells.

6. Borax Treatment

A borax soak can help deodorize smelly clothes. Add 1/2 cup borax and laundry detergent to a tub of hot water. Let clothes soak for at least an hour, then launder as normal.

7. Hang Outside to Dry

Letting your clothes air dry outside can help freshen them up. The sun and fresh air beats the dryer any day when trying to remove stubborn odors.

8. Sunshine

On a sunny day, let your clothes sit outside in direct sunlight for an hour or two. The UV rays in sunlight help eliminate bacteria that causes odors.

9. Freeze Overnight

Stick your smelly clothes in a plastic bag and toss them in the freezer overnight. The cold temperature helps kill odor-causing bacteria. Then launder as normal in the morning.

10. Steam Clean

Use a handheld steamer or steam function on your iron to steam clean smell workout wear. The hot steam helps sanitize and remove odors from fabric.

11. Lemon Juice

The acidity in lemon juice makes it a great odor eliminator. Add 1 cup lemon juice to the wash cycle or soak clothes in lemon juice beforehand to help remove smells.

12. White Distilled Vinegar Spray

Make a vinegar spray by mixing equal parts white distilled vinegar and water. Lightly spray over clothes between washes to help freshen them up.

13. Vodka spray

The alcohol in vodka can help kill odor-causing bacteria. Make a spray with 1 part vodka, 2 parts water. Mist over clothes between washes.

14. Essential Oils

Eucalyptus, peppermint, tea tree and other antimicrobial essential oils can help neutralize odors when added to the wash or used as a spritz between wears.

15. Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal is a great natural deodorizer. Add a charcoal laundry booster along with detergent to help absorb and neutralize smells.

With the right laundry techniques, keeping the stink away from your activewear is possible. Pre-treat heavily soiled items, use a detergent made for athletic fabrics, and take advantage of odor-fighting ingredients like vinegar, baking soda and lemon. A little extra effort will have you feeling fresh for your workouts.

Line or Air Dry Instead of Machine Drying

As an active person, you know the struggle of trying to keep your workout clothes from getting smelly and gross. No matter how much we love working up a good sweat during our fitness sessions, having to deal with the lingering stench in our activewear afterwards isn’t so pleasant. While regular washing can help, getting rid of stubborn sweat and bacteria requires some extra laundry TLC.

Not to worry – with the right techniques and detergent products, you can keep your athletic apparel smelling fresh between wears. Here we lay out 15 of the top tips and tricks for battling perspiration odors in your workout wear using laundry solutions.

1. Pre-Treat Prior to Washing

Before throwing your sweat-drenched clothes in the wash, let them soak in a detergent solution beforehand. Mix equal parts laundry detergent and warm water, then let your activewear soak for 30 mins to overnight depending on the intensity of the smell. This will help break down odors and bacteria before washing.

2. Use a Activewear Detergent

For super stinky workout wear, use a detergent specially formulated for activewear and athletic fabrics. These contain enzymes and odor neutralizers that target sweat and the bacteria that causes stench. Look for sport detergents from brands like Tide, Persil, and Hex.